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Lightweight solo shelter with thoughtful ventilation and genuinely practical access
Terra Nova says:
Representing a new generation of lightweight shelter design, with the use of trekking poles and advanced materials delivering a refined, minimalist structure. Designed for solo backpackers who prioritise excellent size to weight ratio. Compact packability, and reliable protection.
The TriPlex™ flysheet is constructed from 20D Triple Ripstop, solution dyed, PFC-free recycled nylon/poly fabric with a high-performance Si/Si coating and a 3,000mm hydrostatic head, offering dependable weather protection while keeping weight to a minimum.
The 20D recycled ripstop nylon groundsheet features a robust Si/Si coating and a 5,000mm hydrostatic head, providing confidence on wet ground without adding bulk. The inner tent uses 15D recycled ripstop nylon with PFC-free water-repellent treatment and solution dyed mesh, delivering excellent ventilation and comfort for three-season use.
Pitched using trekking poles, the iO 1 is also supported by two 8mm TN Reflex alloy end poles to increase inner tent volume and flysheet stability. The half-mesh inner design strikes a balance between airflow and protection, making it well suited to variable conditions on long -distance routes.
With a remarkably compact packed size of just 30cm x 12cm, the iO 1 disappears easily into a pack. Lightweight Terra Firma Mini pegs and Dyneema® reflective guylines complete the setup, ensuring secure pitching even in exposed camps. Designed with sustainability at its core and performance in mind, the iO 1 is ideal for those who want to move further, faster, and lighter.
Our Verdict
The Terra Nova iO 1 Tent marks Terra Nova’s first real move into trekking pole shelters, and it leans towards a sturdier, more structured take on the category. At 976g for fly, inner and poles, it feels more robust than many minimalist options. The dual doors and twin porches are standout features, providing proper separation for gear and improving day-to-day usability.
Ventilation is well handled, with adjustable head and foot end vents that allow you to fine-tune airflow depending on conditions. It is a well-considered system, though opening one vent fully means removing the supporting pole from its gromit, leaving it unsupported. The structure holds through tension, but on softer ground there is a risk of the pole sinking slightly.
The trekking pole setup is unusual, with the pole inserted tip-up. There are reinforcements to prevent wear, but the handle forms the base, and I found it less secure because of the pole's smooth surface. A tip-down setup, where the pole tip bites into the ground, feels more stable and easier to position. It is worth having a few practice pitches before heading out to get used to the setup.
Internally, the length is generous, but the width is more restrictive. A regular mat fits comfortably, though wider pads feel like a squeeze, which limits flexibility for some users.
Overall, it is a well thought out design that prioritises access, ventilation and practical living space.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Featuring a TriPlex™ triple ripstop nylon and polyester composite flysheet made from recycled, PFC-free, and solution-dyed materials
- Lightweight design and compact for easy packability without sacrificing comfort
- Made with high-performance materials to offer great weather protection
- Efficient layout maximises liveable space for two-person use
- AiroCorner™ technology
- Extra guyline and peg supplied to support door awning
Specifications
Our Specs -
- Flysheet & Inner weighs: 901g
- Poles weigh: 66g
- Total weight: 976 (excludes pegs & bags)
- Pegs x 11 weigh: 100g
Terra Nova Specs -
- Sleeps: 1
- Season Rating: 3 Season
- Packed Size: 30cm x 12cm
- Pitched Size: 220cm x 220cm x 166cm
- Max Weight: 1140g
- Min Weight: 1050g
- Weight Class: Lite Weight
- Flysheet Material: 20D Triple R/S Si/Si Recycled C0 SD
- Flysheet Hydrostatic Head: 3000mm HH
- Number of Pegs: 10
- Pegs Material: Terra Firma Mini Pegs (9g)
- Number of Guylines: 4
- Footprint Compatible: Yes
- Doors: 1
- Porches: 1
Material & Construction
- Inner Material: 15D Nylon R/S Recycled C0 WR / SD Mesh
- Groundsheet Material: 20D R/S Si/Si Recycled C0
- Groundsheet Hydrostatic Head: 5000mm HH
- Pole Material: 8mm TN Reflex Alloy
- Guylines Material: Grey Dyneema Reflective
